The Royal Fleet Auxiliary: supporting British Forces around the World
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How to keep the Fleet supplied has posed a logistic problem that is virtually as old as the Royal Navy itself. In the days of wooden warships the requirements were relatively simple – powder, shot, timber, canvas, food and, of course, rum. As the Navy grew in size and complexity its logistical needs became evermore diverse.
Over the years, the RFA has developed into a complex multi-purpose flotilla, providing the Royal Navy with replenishment, training and forward repair capabilities, and the Army and Royal Marines with secure sea-borne logistical support. In addition, RFA ships have provided vital assistance with disaster relief and humanitarian aid in many stricken areas of the world.
In 2003, during the war in Iraq, 14 RFA ships sailed to the Gulf in support of Royal Navy and United Nations vessels. RFA Sir Galahad had the distinction of being the first ship to enter the port of Um Qasr, her cargo no longer military equipment but laden with 650 tonnes of humanitarian aid for the people of Iraq.
RFA Wave Ruler (already stationed in the Caribbean) assisted with rescue operations in the wake of Hurricane Ivan in Grenada where the crew restored communications and electricity, and helped to repair runways enabling aircraft to bring in emergency aid. After two days the ship moved on to Grand Cayman to help local people in clearing roads of toppled buildings and trees in addition to providing technical assistance with communications.
RFA Diligence was in the Indian Ocean when the Tsunami struck South East Asia and after embarking humanitarian stores in Cochin proceeded, with HMS Chatham, to Sri Lanka. Crew members were tasked with clearing debris and ensuring that drinkable water was available for the population, while a team of engineers was flown to the Maldives to repair an electrical generator.
More recently, in 2006, RFA Fort Victoria assisted with the evacuation of civilians from the Lebanon.
What career and training opportunities can RFA offer?
If you can picture yourself on the bridge of a ship or taking responsibility for the engine room and electrical systems on board, you may have what it takes to become an Officer Cadet. Whether you choose Deck or Engineering, you must possess a minimum of 5 GCSE (or equivalent) passes at Grade C or above, including English and either Physics or Dual Science, with Maths at Grade B. Training comprises a three-year course, divided between sea time and study at a nautical college in the UK, working towards an HND in either Nautical Science or Marine Engineering. With sufficient UCAS points there is now the opportunity to complete a Foundation degree. On completion, you would go to sea as a Third officer, with serious responsibilities, which include keeping watch on the bridge or in the engine room. Study for further qualifications will be encouraged and promotion prospects are good.
With lower academic qualifications there are opportunities to train as ratings in Deck, Engineering and Communications and, for those interested in catering, there are openings for cooks and stewards. All specialisations include training to NVQ Level 2, beginning with a training course at a military establishment and followed by practical learning at sea.
Why would you want to work for the RFA?
The RFA offers “a life less ordinary” for practical individuals with initiative, who enjoy a challenge and would relish the opportunity to travel around the world. The salary and leave entitlement is highly competitive, combining all the benefits of a merchant-shipping organisation with a true vocation and the excitement of supporting military operations or providing disaster relief.
In a world full of changes, one thing remains constant: the RFA continues to be manned by British seafarers who take pride in the essential role they play in supporting Britain’s Armed Forces around the world.
You can find out more by visiting our website, rfa.mod.uk, contacting the recruiting office on 08456 04 05 20 or emailing rfarecruit@gtnet.gov.uk.
| Why not work here: | ||
| The Ship Safe Training Group - find out more Maersk - Careers at Sea - find out more The Royal Fleet Auxiliary - find out more |
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